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"Down for a while, it was good to get on a flight and knowing I was going somewhere," Allen said. "It's obviously a great team to be around, a great clubhouse to be in, just from the perspective of being here. Whatever comes, I'm happy to be here."

Allen was the A's Opening Day first baseman, but was designated for assignment after playing in just three games (seven at-bats). The Rays claimed him off waivers Thursday. Manager Joe Maddon said they haven't determined how they'll slot in Allen, but with the pop he has in his bat, he could be a pinch-hitter. Allen said he's comfortable in the outfield, but can also play first base, or fill in at DH.

"I guess people know me for power, but I want to be more than that," Allen said. "And hopefully the guys here can turn me into a complete player."

*Manager Joe Maddon said the lineup tonight is what they'll likely stick with against righthanders, liking how Ben Zobrist has got on base in the two-hole.

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The Tampa Bay Rays will head into the 2015 season with Evan Longoria, Chris Archer, Alex Cobb and plenty of new faces, including manager Kevin Cash. Can they upend the Orioles in the highly competitive AL East? Come here to follow Rays news at Tropicana Field and beyond.